Rosa Lee Porter spent her childhood climbing trees in Rhodelia with Tommy Jenkins, the boy next door. In 1907 when Tommy leaves Rhodelia and a heartbroken Rosa Lee behind, they agree to exchange letters, unwilling to completely sever their connection.
A chance encounter with Sam Hudson, a handsome circus strongman, introduces Rosa Lee to a world of glittering costumes, majestic animals, and dazzling performers. By 1913, she is Rosa Volante, "Queen of the Big Top," an aerialist known for her scandalous, death-defying signature act. However, behind the fame and bright lights, Rosa Lee is secretly living a nightmare.
Meanwhile, Tommy endures an unspeakable tragedy and faces dangers of his own that threaten to push Rosa Lee away forever.
As Rosa Lee's ties to Sam the strongman become hopelessly tangled, an unexpected event brings her back to Rhodelia. But Rosa Lee's nightmares have followed her, and coming home is never as easy as it seems.